Strong Opposition Emerges Over Kildare’s Controversial Cycle Lanes

UPDATE: A new 3-kilometre stretch of cycle lanes in Kildare has ignited fierce backlash from locals who claim the project “starts nowhere and ends nowhere.” Residents are protesting daily as construction continues along the R448, linking the small villages of Moone and Timolin, which together host fewer than 275 residents.

Local concerns are escalating as community members argue that the cycle lanes, costing €1.6 million, were imposed without adequate consultation. “We’re now getting a cycle lane that nobody wants,” said Mark Hilliard, chair of the Moone-Timolin Positive Action Group. The ongoing construction has sparked protests and a petition that has already gathered over 600 signatures against the project.

The cycle lanes, being built by Kildare County Council in partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), aim to enhance cyclist safety on a road known for serious accidents. However, locals express that the removal of the hard shoulder has created dangerous conditions for vehicles and pedestrians alike. Hilliard emphasized those concerns, stating, “We feel steamrolled — and it could happen to other communities too.”

Fellow resident Noreen Kilrane lamented the loss of one of the only walking areas in the community, describing chaotic encounters between large farm machinery and vehicles on the now-narrowed roadway. Farmers, cyclists, and motorists have united in opposition, voicing that the cycle lanes, which are only 1.5 metres wide, force cyclists to ride single-file and present safety challenges at various junctions.

The protests have drawn attention from local officials. Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon met with residents last week, pledging to raise their issues with TII and Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien. Local councillor Ivan Keatley acknowledged the community’s anger but defended the need for safer road conditions. “There have been a number of serious accidents along that road,” Keatley stated, highlighting the necessity for change. He also noted that TII has agreed to hold a community workshop to address concerns and explain the project’s objectives.

Despite TII’s commitment to safety, residents feel unheard, claiming the planning process lacked transparency. Hilliard stated, “They’re saying there was consultation, but I can tell you there wasn’t. Our views weren’t taken on board.”

In response to the backlash, TII plans to host a workshop in Moone parish hall on Tuesday evening to further engage with the community and gather feedback on the cycle lane design. The ongoing controversy reflects broader tensions in rural communities over infrastructure projects that appear disconnected from local needs.

As the situation develops, stakeholders await the outcome of the workshop and any potential adjustments to the current project. The sentiment in Kildare remains clear: many residents are demanding a reconsideration of how such initiatives are implemented in their communities.